26 September 2011 - Honda Motor Co., Ltd has announced the development of two new engines, one powerful and fuel efficient for midsized Honda motorcycles and the other durable and quiet for Honda 125cc global scooter models.

The new midsized engine is a liquid-cooled, 700cc, 4-stroke, 2-cylinder engine with powerful torque in the low- to mid-speed range and top-notch, fuel-efficient environment performance, along with a second-generation Dual Clutch Transmission.

A lightweight, compact second-generation Dual Clutch Transmission, featuring a smooth, direct feel and excellent transmission efficiency, has also been developed as a transmission to fit this new engine. Two types of transmission are available, including a 6-speed manual transmission. This new engine will be mounted on three models based on different concepts, which are slated for exhibition at The Milan Bike Show to be held in November in Milan, Italy.

Honda developed this new motorcycle engine in order to realize a set of motorcycles based on its new concept of offering overwhelming fuel efficiency in the mid-class while delivering powerful, throbbing torque in the normal range for touring and urban riding.

Honda determined the engine layout after examining a variety of engine types from numerous perspectives and decided on an in-line, 700cc, 2-cylinder engine with a 62º forward lean (cylinder assembly angle). In addition, a lighter and smaller second-generation Dual Clutch Transmission has been developed to fit this new engine. Two model types, including a 6-speed manual transmission, are available to meet a diverse set of user preferences.

The newly developed 125cc engine, designed with enhanced durability, quietness and fuel economy will be for next-generation global scooter models in the 125cc class. The engine will accommodate an advanced idle stop system for motorcycles and will offer approximately 25% greater fuel economy than that of engines for scooters with the same displacement.

This liquid-cooled, 125cc, 4-stroke, single-cylinder engine incorporates a wide range of low-friction technologies while packing its lighter weight in a more compact body. Mounted on a variety of 125cc scooters to be sold in many countries around the world, this new engine is slated for global rollout starting in 2012.

This new engine was developed to allow the offering of highly convenient and attractive products while reducing CO2 emissions on a global scale through the further enhancement of engine performance and fuel economy in 125cc scooters - a vehicle used by many customers for commuting in various countries around the world.

To achieve the engine's excellent fuel efficiency, Honda incorporated a broad spectrum of new ideas to thoroughly reduce friction. Low-friction technologies such as an offset cylinder and roller rocker arm are supplemented by such techniques as intelligent control to lessen friction during power generation and the first adoption of a shell-type needle bearing for the rocker arm shaft.

Full press releases from Honda Motor Co., Ltd are available at:
http://www.hondanews.info

www.hondamotorcycles.com.au

Dealer Locator, Ph: 1 300 1 HONDA

Media Contact:

Emma Kershaw
Coordinator Public Relations
Honda Australia Motorcycle and Power Equipment Pty Ltd
Telephone: (+613) 9270 1183
Facsimile: (+613) 9357 0826
Website: www.honda.com.au
Email: EKershaw@hondampe.com.au

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